Khalid bin Humaid Al Qasimi opens Arab Chess Championship

November 18, 2025 / 10:21 PM

Sharjah 24: The Arab Chess Championship has commenced in Kuwait, with Sheikh Dr. Khalid Bin Humaid Al Qasimi, President of the Arab Chess Federation, inaugurating the event. Organised by the Kuwait Chess Federation, the tournament is taking place at the Kuwait Mind Sports Club and features 90 male and female players from 18 Arab countries competing across classical, rapid, and blitz formats. The top three players will earn international titles, highlighting the tournament's high level of competition and technical skill.

Opening Ceremony and Key Attendees

Prominent sports figures, including Bashar Abdullah Al Salem, Acting Director-General of the Public Authority for Sport in Kuwait; Dr Maliha Mahmoud Al Mazmi, Secretary-General of the Arab Chess Federation; and Dr. Amal Al Koot, Chair of the Organising Committee, attended the opening ceremony and the first-board launch. Following the ceremony, visitors toured the playing hall to witness the start of the first round.

Significance of the championship

Dr Al Mazmi emphasised that this championship is a significant event on the Arab Chess Federation’s calendar, due to its high technical level, excellent organisation, and the opportunity it provides for players to earn international titles. She highlighted that the tournament, running until November 25, offers players a chance to improve their international ratings and advance their careers. The event also serves as a platform for global visibility and the development of future champions.

Kuwait’s role in promoting chess

She praised the Kuwait Chess Federation for its outstanding organizational efforts and considered this event a model for hosting major sporting competitions in the Arab region. Dr Al Mazmi reiterated the Federation’s strategic goals to enhance chess in Arab countries through training programs, regular high-quality tournaments, and long-term development projects. She highlighted the importance of promoting chess in schools, clubs, and cultural centers to involve more people of all ages and to prepare Arab players for international success.

Expectations and future outlook

Dr Amal Al Kout expressed pride in hosting this key Arab event, emphasizing the potential for high-level competition to foster Arab cooperation. She stated that Kuwait aims to create optimal conditions for Arab players to showcase their talents and believes this edition will be a significant step forward for Arab chess, fostering stronger connections among delegations and advancing the sport across the region.